November 15, 2011
NEW BEDFORD, MA (WPRI) – A new study conducted by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division reveals that Massachusetts’ airports support 124,000 jobs statewide and generate $11.9 billion in economic activity.
The comprehensive study was discussed Tuesday at Bridgewater State University’s Aviation Training Facility at the New Bedford Regional Airport.
Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick toured the facility today along with New Bedford Mayor Scott Lang.
The study measured the total economic impact of the 39 public airports, including Boston Logan International Airport.
“Infrastructure investments just like these create jobs and improve public safety,” said Gov. Patrick.
The city of New Bedford was awarded a $7 million grant awarded by MassDOT’s Aeronautics Division to help support it’s ongoing airport runway safety project. The $17 million project is also being supported by federal funding.
The project, which began in 2010, is expected to be complete in 2013.
“New Bedford Airport is one of many great examples of the importance of aviation facilities to our economic strength,” said Gov. Patrick.
After touring the facility, Governor Patrick proclaimed the month of November as “General Aviation Month.”
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also assisted MassDOT in the study.
http://www.wpri.com/dpp/news/massachusetts/ma-airports-generate-$11.9-billion
Source: WPRI
Date: 2011-11-15